Chocolate Almond Clusters

Name: Chocolate Almond Clusters
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 12 clusters
Ingredients: 1 cup raw almonds; 1 cup dark chocolate chips; 1 tablespoon coconut oil (optional); Sea salt (for garnishing)

Highlighted under: Dessert Bliss

I absolutely adore making Chocolate Almond Clusters whenever I need a quick, satisfying treat that's both delicious and easy to whip up. With just a handful of ingredients, I can create a sweet snack that’s perfect for sharing or indulging all by myself. The combination of rich chocolate and crunchy almonds never fails to put a smile on my face. Plus, these clusters can be customizable with your favorite nuts or dried fruits, making them a fun addition to any dessert table or snack box.

Created by

Marianne Hughes

Last updated on 2026-01-10T12:58:11.498Z

When I first tried making these Chocolate Almond Clusters, I was amazed at how simple yet satisfying the process was. I melted high-quality chocolate to ensure a smooth coating and tossed in roasted almonds for that perfect crunch. The result was an irresistible treat that quickly became a favorite in my household.

One important tip I learned along the way is to let the clusters cool completely on parchment paper before trying to lift them off. This prevents the chocolate from sticking and helps maintain their shape. Trust me; you don’t want to miss out on these delightful clusters!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich chocolate flavor paired with crunchy almonds
Quick and easy to prepare with minimal clean-up
Perfect for satisfying sweet cravings any time of day

Perfecting the Chocolate Coating

Getting the chocolate coating just right is crucial for delicious Chocolate Almond Clusters. When melting the chocolate, do so in short bursts, stirring every 30 seconds. This prevents overheating, which can cause the chocolate to seize. You want the chocolate to be smooth and glossy, with no lumps remaining. If you notice it thickening too quickly, you might have heated it too much; a splash of coconut oil can help restore its fluidity.

Dark chocolate is the star ingredient here, bringing a rich, slightly bitter flavor that beautifully contrasts the sweet, nutty almonds. I prefer using semi-sweet chocolate chips for a balanced sweetness. If you’re feeling adventurous, you could try using milk chocolate for a creamier taste or even white chocolate for a sweeter cluster. Keep in mind that different chocolates will yield different flavor profiles and textures.

Making Your Clusters Unique

While the classic chocolate-almond combination is satisfying, don’t hesitate to personalize your clusters with other mix-ins. Chopped dried fruits like cranberries, apricots, or cherries can add a delightful chewy texture. Alternatively, consider mixing in seeds such as pumpkin or sunflower seeds for added crunch and nutrition. Just make sure to keep the ratio of chocolate and nuts consistent to ensure proper coating.

If you want to make a nut-free version, sunflower seeds or crunchie roasted chickpeas can be a fantastic substitute for almonds. You’ll still achieve that satisfying crunch while accommodating dietary restrictions. Experimenting with different flavors and textures can elevate these clusters, making them a versatile treat for various occasions.

Ingredients

Gather the ingredients below before starting your Chocolate Almond Clusters.

Ingredients

1 cup raw almonds
1 cup dark chocolate chips
1 tablespoon coconut oil (optional)
Sea salt (for garnishing)

Once you have all your ingredients, you're ready to start making these delectable treats!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Chocolate Almond Clusters.

Prepare the Baking Sheet

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.

Melt the Chocolate

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the dark chocolate chips and coconut oil. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until melted and smooth.

Combine Ingredients

Add the raw almonds to the melted chocolate and stir until all almonds are well coated.

Form the Clusters

Using a spoon, drop small clusters of the chocolate-coated almonds onto the prepared baking sheet.

Add Sea Salt

Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt over each cluster before they cool.

Let Cool

Allow the clusters to cool completely at room temperature, or refrigerate for 10 minutes for faster setting.

Once cooled, your Chocolate Almond Clusters are ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract or a dash of cinnamon to the melted chocolate before coating the almonds.

Storage Tips

To store your Chocolate Almond Clusters, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature, where they can last for about a week. However, if you live in a warmer climate, you might prefer to refrigerate them to prevent melting or softening, especially if you use coconut oil in the chocolate. Just remember, chilled clusters can be a bit harder, so allow them to sit at room temperature for a few minutes before enjoying.

For longer storage, these clusters freeze beautifully. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer. When you're ready to enjoy, simply thaw them out in the fridge for a few hours, and they’ll taste just as fresh as when you made them.

Scaling the Recipe

If you want to make a larger batch for a gathering or to share with friends, this recipe scales up easily. For every 1 cup of almonds and chocolate chips, simply multiply the amount by how many batches you need. Just be cautious not to overcrowd your mixing bowl or your baking sheet, as this can lead to uneven clusters.

Conversely, if you're looking to make a smaller quantity—perhaps as a quick treat for yourself—simply halve the recipe. You can melt just half a cup of chocolate and use about half the almonds. Keep in mind that smaller batches might harden faster, so watch closely while forming your clusters on the baking sheet.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Yes, you can substitute milk chocolate for dark chocolate if you prefer a sweeter flavor.

→ How long will these clusters last?

Stored in an airtight container, these clusters can last up to a week at room temperature.

→ Can I add other nuts or ingredients?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix in your favorite nuts or even dried fruits for added texture and flavor.

→ Is it necessary to use coconut oil?

No, the coconut oil is optional. It simply helps to make the chocolate smoother and give it a nice sheen.